This Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum Dessert is a yummy treat that combines sweet strawberries with creamy layers. It’s like a party in your mouth with every bite of this delightful dessert!
You can whip this up quickly, and it’s perfect for warm days or to impress your friends. I love serving it chilled—the strawberries are so fresh and juicy, it’s hard to resist going for seconds! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Strawberries: These are the star of the dessert! Look for ripe, sweet strawberries. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen strawberries, just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
Granulated Sugar: This helps sweeten the strawberries. If you prefer a healthier option, feel free to use honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount since they are sweeter.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Essential for that rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half with Greek yogurt, which also adds a nice tang.
Cream Cheese: Choose a full-fat cream cheese for a creamier filling. You can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different twist or if you have dietary restrictions.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the crust and topping. If you’d like a gluten-free dessert, try using crushed gluten-free cookies or oats mixed with a bit of brown sugar as a substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks?
Getting the heavy cream to stiff peaks is key for a fluffy filling. Here’s how you can achieve that:
- Start with chilled equipment. Use a chilled bowl and beaters, as this helps the cream whip up faster and more efficiently.
- Pour the heavy cream into the bowl and begin mixing on a low speed to avoid splashing. Gradually increase the speed.
- Continue whipping until you see soft peaks form, then keep going until stiff peaks form. This means it should hold its shape without collapsing.
Don’t over-whip, or it will turn into butter! If this happens, just combine with a bit of fresh cream to save it. Trust me, a perfectly whipped cream enhances the whole dessert!
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (divided)
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (divided)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of preparation time, plus 3-4 hours (ideally overnight) for chilling in the fridge. A little patience is key, but when it’s time to serve, it will be totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by slicing the fresh strawberries and placing them in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar over the strawberries and gently toss them. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the strawberries to release their juice and become even sweeter!
2. Make the Crust:
In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs with 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to create a solid crust. Place it in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Cream Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the powdered sugar and the vanilla extract, then beat again until everything is well combined.
4. Whip the Cream:
Grab a clean, chilled bowl and pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using a mixer, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This should take only a few minutes! Gently fold this whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture until everything is smoothly combined. The fluffiness from the cream is what makes this dessert so delicious!
5. Assemble the Dessert:
Now it’s time to layer the dessert. Spread half of the creamy filling evenly over the cold graham cracker crust. Next, take your macerated strawberries and scoop them on top, spreading them out evenly. Finally, spoon the rest of the cream mixture over the strawberries, spreading it smooth to cover them up.
6. Top with Crumbs:
In a small bowl, combine the remaining graham cracker crumbs (1/2 cup) with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter until mixed. Sprinkle this crumb mixture evenly over the top layer of cream for some added crunch.
7. Chill:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours. If you can wait longer, letting it chill overnight makes it even better, as the flavors meld beautifully!
8. Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh strawberry halves on top for a beautiful presentation. Cut into squares and enjoy your delightful Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum Dessert!
This dessert features layers of creamy whipped cream and cream cheese, sweet strawberries, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe. This will prevent the dessert from becoming too soggy.
How Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
To make this dessert gluten-free, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or crushed gluten-free oats mixed with a bit of sugar. Just check the labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free!
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. Just add the strawberry garnish right before serving for the best presentation!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, try to keep the graham cracker topping covered to prevent it from becoming soggy.
